{"id":1875999,"date":"2026-04-10T07:30:00","date_gmt":"2026-04-10T04:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1875999"},"modified":"2026-04-10T07:30:00","modified_gmt":"2026-04-10T04:30:00","slug":"the-biggest-winners-and-losers-from-f1s-surprise-five-week-break","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1875999","title":{"rendered":"The biggest winners and losers from F1\u2019s surprise five-week break"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268868295.jpg?width=1600&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9&#8243;]<\/p>\n<article>\n<header id=\"lbs-article\" class=\"article header article-header section layout layout--article-header\">\n<div class=\"col headline\">\n<div>\n<h1>The biggest winners and losers from F1\u2019s surprise five-week break<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"summary body\">\n<p>Who are the biggest winners and losers from F1\u2019s unexpected April break?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"section two-column\">\n<div class=\"col article-info\">\n<div>\n<address> Lewis Larkam <\/address>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div><time datetime=\"2026-04-10T08:30:00+01:00\">10 Apr 2026<\/time><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"col article-actions\">\n<div class=\"block block-better-social-sharing-buttons block-social-sharing-buttons-block\">\n<div class=\"social-sharing-buttons\"><span class=\"ssb-title\"> Share<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<div id=\"lbs-content\" class=\"content wide-two-column-sticky section layout layout--wide-two-column-sticky\">\n<div class=\"col first-column\">\n<div>\n<div>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268868295.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268868295.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268868295.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268868295.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268868295.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268868295.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268868295.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268868295.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268868295.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>The start of the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block block-preferred-source\">\n<div class=\"preferred-source-cta\">  Add as a preferred source <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Formula 1\u2019s unexpected five-week break is good news for some teams but bad for others.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The cancellation of the Middle East double-header in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia due to the war in Iran leaves an unexpected gap in the 2026 F1 calendar between the Japanese Grand Prix on 29 March and the Miami Grand Prix on 3 May.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">While there will be no racing in April, that doesn\u2019t mean the work will stop altogether. The team\u2019s factories remain open for development work and the hiatus also provides key F1 figures the chance to work through potential tweaks to the much-maligned new regulations ahead of the next race in Miami.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">For several teams this will provide a welcome opportunity, but it is the last thing those who have started strongly needed. This is who the unplanned break will benefit &#8211; and hurt &#8211; the most\u2026<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Loser &#8211; Mercedes<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Antonelli has become F1&#8217;s youngest title leader<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Mercedes is undoubtedly the biggest loser, having made the perfect start to F1\u2019s new era by winning the opening three races, as well as taking victory in the China sprint.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The Silver Arrows&#8217; unbeaten start has seen it move into a commanding early lead at the top of both world championships, so the last thing it needed was a break. With no mandatory shutdown period, unlike in the August break, this will provide rival teams a chance to work on upgrades and conduct some vital learning to further understand F1\u2019s complex new rules and power unit systems.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-ec3caa3d81c240da981bf6de9dbd0bd6d6b13e67429167902571050b23dbc1a1\">  F1 world champion\u2019s daughter makes her racing debut this weekend   Why Lance Stroll thinks winning is possible on his GT racing debut <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Mercedes would have much preferred to go racing and likely claim two more victories to strengthen its already formidable position at the top of F1. Now, there is a risk its rivals could close the gap, though the current 2026 leaders will not be standing still either, with sizeable updates expected to be brought to Miami from pretty much every team.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Another consequence that could hurt Mercedes is that there will now be two fewer races before F1\u2019s new compression limit tests come into force from 1 June. Rivals hope this will peg Mercedes back, having accused the German manufacturer of gaining a performance edge by exploiting a loophole in the wording of the regulations by using thermal expansion and materials technology to exceed the mandated compression ratio when the engine is running at temperature.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Winner &#8211; Aston Martin\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Aston Martin sit last in the constructors&#8217; championship<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-70ec4d86357202b4e0b0e5f7abc4787b62f0bc9d3ce4b5d290538418c0ab77c0\">  Max Verstappen\u2019s father reacts to bombshell Gianpiero Lambiase exit   How Max Verstappen\u2019s F1 race engineer will fit in at McLaren <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The break will provide Aston Martin with welcome relief after enduring a nightmare start to the 2026 F1 season. Dogged by performance and reliability issues relating to both its chassis and the power unit of new engine partner Honda, Aston Martin badly needs a reset.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">On one hand, losing much-needed track time is a blow in terms of crucial data-gathering and a chance to address the problems it faces. On the other, Aston Martin will be sparred further embarrassment, having only been able to complete one full grand prix distance so far this year.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">This priceless time can be spent further working on solving the vibration issues that have curtailed Aston Martin\u2019s season so far, rather than simply relying on countermeasures as damage-limitation.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">There will also be opportunities to make improvements on the chassis side, with legendary designer Adrian Newey admitting the AMR26 is not only being held back by Honda\u2019s engine performance. Aston Martin also has a weight problem, though not as severe as Williams&#8217; (more on that later), so quick-fire gains could be made here.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Improving the competitiveness of Honda\u2019s power unit will be a longer-term fix aided by F1\u2019s new Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO), but Aston Martin should head to Miami in a much-better place thanks to this unplanned pause.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<h2><strong>Loser &#8211; Haas\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Haas has made a flying start to F1 2026<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Another team to have enjoyed a brilliant start to 2026 is Haas. Amid Mercedes\u2019 early supremacy, Haas has flown somewhat under-the-radar in the opening three rounds.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Ollie Bearman continues to impress and has been one of the standout performers in 2026 so far, finishing seventh and fifth in Australia and China, before suffering a terrifying crash in Japan. On that day, team-mate Esteban Ocon was on hand to score points for the first time this year in ninth.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Haas enters the April break enjoying one of its best starts in its F1 history, matching its 2016 debut tally of 18 points after the first three races. The American outfit currently lies fourth in the constructors\u2019 standings, behind only Mercedes, Ferrari and McLaren.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">With no racing for a month, there is a chance Haas could lose its early momentum and be caught by its midfield rivals who made slower starts to the campaign. Alpine and Red Bull are only two points behind, while Racing Bulls sit four points adrift of Haas.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">With the current VF-26 package working well, and particularly impressive in race trim, Haas would have preferred to build on its strong start instead of taking an enforced break.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Winner &#8211; Williams\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>The FW48 is off the pace and overweight<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The break is good news for Williams. The Grove-based squad has arguably been the biggest disappointment of 2026, having failed to build upon its promise of last season and slipped towards the back of the midfield pack.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Weight is the biggest issue currently handicapping Williams, with its FW48 both badly off the pace and hugely overweight. Williams will be one of the team\u2019s looking to put this time to good use in a bid to cut weight from its car &#8211; the fastest way to bring an immediate performance benefit.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Williams team principal James Vowles promised that his team would use \u201cevery single hour\u201d of the break to regain some ground to the likes of Haas, Alpine, Audi and Racing Bulls in the midfield fight.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<h2><strong>Loser &#8211; Red Bull\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Red Bull is having a season to forget so far<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Red Bull is under pressure after making a lacklustre start to 2026, having been beset by both performance and reliability woes which have left the team a self-prescribed \u2018fourth-fastest\u2019 and sixth in the constructors\u2019 championship with just 16 points to its name.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">As it looks to better understand its first in-house power unit, Red Bull needs all the lap time it can get. Therefore, losing two races will be detrimental to its learning, as suggested by Isack Hadjar after the Chinese Grand Prix.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Red Bull will be able to try and address some of the balance and handling woes afflicting its RB22, but its rivals have just as much time to develop upgrades during this period of time.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Winner &#8211; McLaren\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>McLaren were Mercedes&#8217; nearest challenger in Japan<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">McLaren stand to gain from the month-long break given it started its double world championship defence on the back foot in Australia, and failed to even make the start with a disastrous double DNS in China.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The Woking outfit showed a better reflection of its competitiveness in Japan, where it emerged as Mercedes\u2019 nearest challenger, leapfrogging Ferrari. This came after making some impressive gains with the understanding of how to get the best out of its Mercedes engine during a two-week break between races.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">McLaren will be looking to utilise this time to further unlock more performance, while it already intended to unleash its first major upgrade package of the season in Miami. No races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia means McLaren will lose fewer points to its rivals as it looks to get itself back on the front foot.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest F1 news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<h2>In this article<\/h2>\n<div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">F1<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Mercedes<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Aston Martin<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Haas<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Williams<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Red Bull<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">McLaren<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block block-next-prev\">\n<div class=\"next-prev-pager contextual-region\">\n<div class=\"items\">\n<div class=\"item prev\">\n<h3>  Previous<\/h3>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\"> Max Verstappen&#8217;s &#8216;secret trick&#8217; GT rivals &#8220;would never have thought of&#8221; teased<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/si202603260165.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/si202603260165.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/si202603260165.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/si202603260165.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/si202603260165.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/si202603260165.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/si202603260165.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/si202603260165.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/si202603260165.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"item next\">\n<h3> Next <\/h3>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\"> Williams poach ex-Mercedes technical figure to aid F1 recovery<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404106_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404106_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404106_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404106_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404106_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404106_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404106_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404106_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404106_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"article-author-block block block-configurable-views-block\">\n<div class=\"author-view grid-view js-view-dom-id-782ba03db97b92529e29b70317667196e290180153d4b79a10ebf718e07e9087\">\n<div class=\"card user default\">\n<div class=\"image\"> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/pictures\/1bc46a82-ac76-40ea-9cf5-d309b802b0ef_1.jpeg?height=270&amp;format=webp 270w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/pictures\/1bc46a82-ac76-40ea-9cf5-d309b802b0ef_1.jpeg?height=180&amp;format=webp 180w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/pictures\/1bc46a82-ac76-40ea-9cf5-d309b802b0ef_1.jpeg?height=90&amp;format=webp 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"info\">\n<div class=\"header\">\n<div class=\"text\">\n<div class=\"name\">Lewis Larkam<\/div>\n<div class=\"role\">F1 Editor<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"desc\">\n<p>Lewis regularly attends Grands Prix for Crash.net around the world. Often reporting on the action from the ground, Lewis tells the stories of the people who matter in the sport.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"views-element-container block block-views-blockrelated-content-related-content-block\">\n<h3>More News<\/h3>\n<div class=\"grid-view grid-2 js-view-dom-id-0075ebb00d0c9146f176c3797531e96c15a9357af73ea9951bb8ddf9ce03d8fb\">\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  Feature <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Why Lambiase isn&#8217;t the only ace McLaren could play to lure Verstappen<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775748723\"> 23h ago<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202512070361.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Could Brown tempt Verstappen to join McLaren? \" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>McLaren confirms Gianpiero Lambiase signing as Red Bull responds to shock exit<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775743636\"> 09\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Verstappen will lose another key ally in Lambiase\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Williams poach ex-Mercedes technical figure to aid F1 recovery<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775741100\"> 09\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404106_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Williams has struggled so far this season.\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>One of F1&#8217;s disappointing starters with &#8220;potential&#8221; urged to make &#8220;big step&#8221;<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775732520\"> 09\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1401103_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Carlos Sainz, Williams Racing, 2026 Chinese GP\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  Feature <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Verstappen\u2019s F1 future even more in doubt after Lambiase shock <\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775727047\"> 09\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202508310193.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Lambiase has engineered Verstappen throughout his Red Bull career\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  Feature <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Why crucial F1 rules decisions won\u2019t be made in this week\u2019s meeting<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775722200\"> 09\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404590_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"2026 F1 Japanese GP\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"col second-column\">\n<div class=\"sticky\">\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info\">\n<p>Get the latest F1 news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"summary body\">\n<p>Who are the biggest winners and losers from F1\u2019s unexpected April break?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Formula 1\u2019s unexpected five-week break is good news for some teams but bad for others.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The cancellation of the Middle East double-header in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia due to the war in Iran leaves an unexpected gap in the 2026 F1 calendar between the Japanese Grand Prix on 29 March and the Miami Grand Prix on 3 May.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">While there will be no racing in April, that doesn\u2019t mean the work will stop altogether. The team\u2019s factories remain open for development work and the hiatus also provides key F1 figures the chance to work through potential tweaks to the much-maligned new regulations ahead of the next race in Miami.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">For several teams this will provide a welcome opportunity, but it is the last thing those who have started strongly needed. This is who the unplanned break will benefit &#8211; and hurt &#8211; the most\u2026<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Loser &#8211; Mercedes<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Antonelli has become F1&#8217;s youngest title leader<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Mercedes is undoubtedly the biggest loser, having made the perfect start to F1\u2019s new era by winning the opening three races, as well as taking victory in the China sprint.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The Silver Arrows&#8217; unbeaten start has seen it move into a commanding early lead at the top of both world championships, so the last thing it needed was a break. With no mandatory shutdown period, unlike in the August break, this will provide rival teams a chance to work on upgrades and conduct some vital learning to further understand F1\u2019s complex new rules and power unit systems.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-ec3caa3d81c240da981bf6de9dbd0bd6d6b13e67429167902571050b23dbc1a1\">  F1 world champion\u2019s daughter makes her racing debut this weekend   Why Lance Stroll thinks winning is possible on his GT racing debut <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Mercedes would have much preferred to go racing and likely claim two more victories to strengthen its already formidable position at the top of F1. Now, there is a risk its rivals could close the gap, though the current 2026 leaders will not be standing still either, with sizeable updates expected to be brought to Miami from pretty much every team.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Another consequence that could hurt Mercedes is that there will now be two fewer races before F1\u2019s new compression limit tests come into force from 1 June. Rivals hope this will peg Mercedes back, having accused the German manufacturer of gaining a performance edge by exploiting a loophole in the wording of the regulations by using thermal expansion and materials technology to exceed the mandated compression ratio when the engine is running at temperature.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Winner &#8211; Aston Martin\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Aston Martin sit last in the constructors&#8217; championship<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-70ec4d86357202b4e0b0e5f7abc4787b62f0bc9d3ce4b5d290538418c0ab77c0\">  Max Verstappen\u2019s father reacts to bombshell Gianpiero Lambiase exit   How Max Verstappen\u2019s F1 race engineer will fit in at McLaren <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The break will provide Aston Martin with welcome relief after enduring a nightmare start to the 2026 F1 season. Dogged by performance and reliability issues relating to both its chassis and the power unit of new engine partner Honda, Aston Martin badly needs a reset.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">On one hand, losing much-needed track time is a blow in terms of crucial data-gathering and a chance to address the problems it faces. On the other, Aston Martin will be sparred further embarrassment, having only been able to complete one full grand prix distance so far this year.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">This priceless time can be spent further working on solving the vibration issues that have curtailed Aston Martin\u2019s season so far, rather than simply relying on countermeasures as damage-limitation.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">There will also be opportunities to make improvements on the chassis side, with legendary designer Adrian Newey admitting the AMR26 is not only being held back by Honda\u2019s engine performance. Aston Martin also has a weight problem, though not as severe as Williams&#8217; (more on that later), so quick-fire gains could be made here.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Improving the competitiveness of Honda\u2019s power unit will be a longer-term fix aided by F1\u2019s new Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO), but Aston Martin should head to Miami in a much-better place thanks to this unplanned pause.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<h2><strong>Loser &#8211; Haas\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Haas has made a flying start to F1 2026<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Another team to have enjoyed a brilliant start to 2026 is Haas. Amid Mercedes\u2019 early supremacy, Haas has flown somewhat under-the-radar in the opening three rounds.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Ollie Bearman continues to impress and has been one of the standout performers in 2026 so far, finishing seventh and fifth in Australia and China, before suffering a terrifying crash in Japan. On that day, team-mate Esteban Ocon was on hand to score points for the first time this year in ninth.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Haas enters the April break enjoying one of its best starts in its F1 history, matching its 2016 debut tally of 18 points after the first three races. The American outfit currently lies fourth in the constructors\u2019 standings, behind only Mercedes, Ferrari and McLaren.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">With no racing for a month, there is a chance Haas could lose its early momentum and be caught by its midfield rivals who made slower starts to the campaign. Alpine and Red Bull are only two points behind, while Racing Bulls sit four points adrift of Haas.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">With the current VF-26 package working well, and particularly impressive in race trim, Haas would have preferred to build on its strong start instead of taking an enforced break.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Winner &#8211; Williams\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>The FW48 is off the pace and overweight<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The break is good news for Williams. The Grove-based squad has arguably been the biggest disappointment of 2026, having failed to build upon its promise of last season and slipped towards the back of the midfield pack.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Weight is the biggest issue currently handicapping Williams, with its FW48 both badly off the pace and hugely overweight. Williams will be one of the team\u2019s looking to put this time to good use in a bid to cut weight from its car &#8211; the fastest way to bring an immediate performance benefit.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Williams team principal James Vowles promised that his team would use \u201cevery single hour\u201d of the break to regain some ground to the likes of Haas, Alpine, Audi and Racing Bulls in the midfield fight.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<h2><strong>Loser &#8211; Red Bull\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Red Bull is having a season to forget so far<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Red Bull is under pressure after making a lacklustre start to 2026, having been beset by both performance and reliability woes which have left the team a self-prescribed \u2018fourth-fastest\u2019 and sixth in the constructors\u2019 championship with just 16 points to its name.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">As it looks to better understand its first in-house power unit, Red Bull needs all the lap time it can get. Therefore, losing two races will be detrimental to its learning, as suggested by Isack Hadjar after the Chinese Grand Prix.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Red Bull will be able to try and address some of the balance and handling woes afflicting its RB22, but its rivals have just as much time to develop upgrades during this period of time.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Winner &#8211; McLaren\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>McLaren were Mercedes&#8217; nearest challenger in Japan<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">McLaren stand to gain from the month-long break given it started its double world championship defence on the back foot in Australia, and failed to even make the start with a disastrous double DNS in China.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The Woking outfit showed a better reflection of its competitiveness in Japan, where it emerged as Mercedes\u2019 nearest challenger, leapfrogging Ferrari. This came after making some impressive gains with the understanding of how to get the best out of its Mercedes engine during a two-week break between races.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">McLaren will be looking to utilise this time to further unlock more performance, while it already intended to unleash its first major upgrade package of the season in Miami. No races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia means McLaren will lose fewer points to its rivals as it looks to get itself back on the front foot.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest F1 news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Formula 1\u2019s unexpected five-week break is good news for some teams but bad for others.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The cancellation of the Middle East double-header in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia due to the war in Iran leaves an unexpected gap in the 2026 F1 calendar between the Japanese Grand Prix on 29 March and the Miami Grand Prix on 3 May.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">While there will be no racing in April, that doesn\u2019t mean the work will stop altogether. The team\u2019s factories remain open for development work and the hiatus also provides key F1 figures the chance to work through potential tweaks to the much-maligned new regulations ahead of the next race in Miami.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">For several teams this will provide a welcome opportunity, but it is the last thing those who have started strongly needed. This is who the unplanned break will benefit &#8211; and hurt &#8211; the most\u2026<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Loser &#8211; Mercedes<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404488_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Antonelli has become F1&#8217;s youngest title leader<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Mercedes is undoubtedly the biggest loser, having made the perfect start to F1\u2019s new era by winning the opening three races, as well as taking victory in the China sprint.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The Silver Arrows&#8217; unbeaten start has seen it move into a commanding early lead at the top of both world championships, so the last thing it needed was a break. With no mandatory shutdown period, unlike in the August break, this will provide rival teams a chance to work on upgrades and conduct some vital learning to further understand F1\u2019s complex new rules and power unit systems.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-ec3caa3d81c240da981bf6de9dbd0bd6d6b13e67429167902571050b23dbc1a1\">  F1 world champion\u2019s daughter makes her racing debut this weekend   Why Lance Stroll thinks winning is possible on his GT racing debut <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Mercedes would have much preferred to go racing and likely claim two more victories to strengthen its already formidable position at the top of F1. Now, there is a risk its rivals could close the gap, though the current 2026 leaders will not be standing still either, with sizeable updates expected to be brought to Miami from pretty much every team.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Another consequence that could hurt Mercedes is that there will now be two fewer races before F1\u2019s new compression limit tests come into force from 1 June. Rivals hope this will peg Mercedes back, having accused the German manufacturer of gaining a performance edge by exploiting a loophole in the wording of the regulations by using thermal expansion and materials technology to exceed the mandated compression ratio when the engine is running at temperature.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Winner &#8211; Aston Martin\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268871676.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Aston Martin sit last in the constructors&#8217; championship<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-70ec4d86357202b4e0b0e5f7abc4787b62f0bc9d3ce4b5d290538418c0ab77c0\">  Max Verstappen\u2019s father reacts to bombshell Gianpiero Lambiase exit   How Max Verstappen\u2019s F1 race engineer will fit in at McLaren <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The break will provide Aston Martin with welcome relief after enduring a nightmare start to the 2026 F1 season. Dogged by performance and reliability issues relating to both its chassis and the power unit of new engine partner Honda, Aston Martin badly needs a reset.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">On one hand, losing much-needed track time is a blow in terms of crucial data-gathering and a chance to address the problems it faces. On the other, Aston Martin will be sparred further embarrassment, having only been able to complete one full grand prix distance so far this year.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">This priceless time can be spent further working on solving the vibration issues that have curtailed Aston Martin\u2019s season so far, rather than simply relying on countermeasures as damage-limitation.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">There will also be opportunities to make improvements on the chassis side, with legendary designer Adrian Newey admitting the AMR26 is not only being held back by Honda\u2019s engine performance. Aston Martin also has a weight problem, though not as severe as Williams&#8217; (more on that later), so quick-fire gains could be made here.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Improving the competitiveness of Honda\u2019s power unit will be a longer-term fix aided by F1\u2019s new Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO), but Aston Martin should head to Miami in a much-better place thanks to this unplanned pause.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<h2><strong>Loser &#8211; Haas\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404699_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Haas has made a flying start to F1 2026<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Another team to have enjoyed a brilliant start to 2026 is Haas. Amid Mercedes\u2019 early supremacy, Haas has flown somewhat under-the-radar in the opening three rounds.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Ollie Bearman continues to impress and has been one of the standout performers in 2026 so far, finishing seventh and fifth in Australia and China, before suffering a terrifying crash in Japan. On that day, team-mate Esteban Ocon was on hand to score points for the first time this year in ninth.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Haas enters the April break enjoying one of its best starts in its F1 history, matching its 2016 debut tally of 18 points after the first three races. The American outfit currently lies fourth in the constructors\u2019 standings, behind only Mercedes, Ferrari and McLaren.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">With no racing for a month, there is a chance Haas could lose its early momentum and be caught by its midfield rivals who made slower starts to the campaign. Alpine and Red Bull are only two points behind, while Racing Bulls sit four points adrift of Haas.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">With the current VF-26 package working well, and particularly impressive in race trim, Haas would have preferred to build on its strong start instead of taking an enforced break.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Winner &#8211; Williams\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403095_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>The FW48 is off the pace and overweight<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The break is good news for Williams. The Grove-based squad has arguably been the biggest disappointment of 2026, having failed to build upon its promise of last season and slipped towards the back of the midfield pack.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Weight is the biggest issue currently handicapping Williams, with its FW48 both badly off the pace and hugely overweight. Williams will be one of the team\u2019s looking to put this time to good use in a bid to cut weight from its car &#8211; the fastest way to bring an immediate performance benefit.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Williams team principal James Vowles promised that his team would use \u201cevery single hour\u201d of the break to regain some ground to the likes of Haas, Alpine, Audi and Racing Bulls in the midfield fight.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<h2><strong>Loser &#8211; Red Bull\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404133_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Red Bull is having a season to forget so far<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Red Bull is under pressure after making a lacklustre start to 2026, having been beset by both performance and reliability woes which have left the team a self-prescribed \u2018fourth-fastest\u2019 and sixth in the constructors\u2019 championship with just 16 points to its name.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">As it looks to better understand its first in-house power unit, Red Bull needs all the lap time it can get. Therefore, losing two races will be detrimental to its learning, as suggested by Isack Hadjar after the Chinese Grand Prix.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Red Bull will be able to try and address some of the balance and handling woes afflicting its RB22, but its rivals have just as much time to develop upgrades during this period of time.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Winner &#8211; McLaren\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404665_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>McLaren were Mercedes&#8217; nearest challenger in Japan<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">McLaren stand to gain from the month-long break given it started its double world championship defence on the back foot in Australia, and failed to even make the start with a disastrous double DNS in China.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The Woking outfit showed a better reflection of its competitiveness in Japan, where it emerged as Mercedes\u2019 nearest challenger, leapfrogging Ferrari. This came after making some impressive gains with the understanding of how to get the best out of its Mercedes engine during a two-week break between races.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">McLaren will be looking to utilise this time to further unlock more performance, while it already intended to unleash its first major upgrade package of the season in Miami. No races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia means McLaren will lose fewer points to its rivals as it looks to get itself back on the front foot.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest F1 news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;http:\/\/crash.net\/f1\/feature\/1092939\/1\/biggest-winners-and-losers-f1s-surprise-five-week-break&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268868295.jpg?width=1600&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9&#8243;] The biggest winners and losers from F1\u2019s surprise five-week break Who are the biggest winners and losers from F1\u2019s unexpected April break? Lewis Larkam 10 Apr 2026 Share The start of the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix Add as a preferred source Formula 1\u2019s unexpected five-week break is good news for some teams [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[47,226],"class_list":["post-1875999","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crash-net","tag-crawlmanager"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1875999","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1875999"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1875999\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1875999"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1875999"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1875999"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}